14 Of The Best Houseboat Holidays In Australia

Fond of sand dunes and salty air? From historic paddle steamers to floating retro havens, here are 14 of the best houseboats in Australia to hire for a cruisy holiday.

The best houseboats in Australia all have one thing in common: tranquil waterfront views. Houseboat holidays are growing in popularity around the country due to an ever-increasing desire to be on or near the water. Be it a 12-berth luxury cruiser with all the mod cons or a quirky floating retro cabin for two, the market is buoyant.

The good news is the only prerequisite to drive a houseboat is that you are over 18 years of age. And if you are not confident handling the life aquatic, you can ask an expert to be at the helm. Here are some of Australia’s best houseboat holidays where you can explore everywhere from the mighty Murray River in South Australia to the Hawkesbury River in NSW. And while some are not technically houseboats, they do provide an opportunity to test the waters in style. Whatever floats your boat.

1. Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW

You will want to dream up your fantasy future as a boaty on Berowra Waters when onboard the retro dream that is Oh Buoy . Spend the day drifting along the waterway in the 1960s-era boat which is flooded with light that winks off the water, lapping all around.

a woman resting on a hammock onboard Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW — Embrace total relaxation while holidaying on the water. (Image: Heart&Sea)

Owners Jess and Laurie Rissman have lovingly restored the boat with upcycled furniture and retro finds and what better way to holiday on the Hawkesbury. Guests onboard Oh Buoy receive a complementary fruit or cheese platter and bottle of wine on arrival and access to dinky dinghy Ginger. Oh Buoy indeed.

a ladder onboard Oh Buoy, Berowra Waters, NSW — Holiday on the Hawkesbury onboard *Oh Buoy*. (Image: Heart&Sea)

2. Lilypad, Palm Beach, NSW

Make like a leaf and float above the waters of Sydney’s Palm Beach onboard Lilypad, a floating haven that is more villa than vessel. The Mediterranean-inspired space is barnacled to a sheltered marina in Pittwater off the Barrenjoey Peninsula, some 41 kilometres north of the CBD. Book an all-inclusive package at the one-bedroom two-storey villa to enjoy chef-prepared meals and the onboard wine cellar, and private self-drive tender to explore the nearby beaches.

a drone shot of Lilypad, Palm Beach, NSW — Embrace a floating holiday in Sydney’s Palm Beach onboard Lilypad. (Image: @cocorepublic)

3. The Nook, Wellington East, SA

There’s no better way to appreciate the mighty Murray River than when cosied up in self-contained floating suite, The Nook (sister cabin to The Cube). The Nook won Best Small Home category on Season 2 of Channel 9’s Australia’s Best Homes, and is moored at the Wellington Private Marina, in SA. According to the manager of Collectiv Retreats, Trevor Burnett, The Nook is aimed at those who want to enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wetlands, river and wildlife. It was built from recycled timbers and features stained-glass windows, a gorgeous galley kitchen and fireplaces.

a lounge with windows onboard The Nook, Wellington East, SA — No need to choose between crackling fire and water views onboard the Nook.

4. The Cube on the Murray River, SA

Take a tiny home. Add water. If it’s a slow stay you’re after, this floating pod stationed amid the reeds overlooking the lake in SA’s Wellington East, is where you will want to cast yourself adrift.

the waterfront balcony at The Cube on the Murray River, SA at sunset — Watch the sun sink below the horizon from your waterfront balcony on the Murray River.

The Cube , which sleeps two, was fashioned from a shipping container and placed on a pontoon. Wake to the dawn chorus of warbling birds and then curl up in one of the egg chairs on the sun deck to watch the mist roll over the Murray.

a hammock at sunset in The Cube on the Murray River, SA — Farwell last light from your hammock with a cocktail in hand.

5. High River on the Murray River, SA

Being onboard the High River on the Murray is to see one of the most scenic stretches of Australia’s longest river at its finest. The off-grid boat has 20kw of solar panels so it’s as quiet as the wind rushing through the trees.

an aerial view of the houseboat at High River on the Murray River, SA — Trace the curves of the Murray River on this off-grid escape.

The houseboat has six king-size beds, each with its own ensuite. There’s also a rooftop bar and spacious outdoor dining area. High River can be hired for your own exclusive holiday, or you can enjoy a tour run by Murray River Trails , one of the leading eco-tourism operators in the region.

the houseboat exterior of High River on the Murray River, SA — Experience outback luxury onboard High River on the Murray.

6. PS Emmylou, Echuca, Victoria

The best way to get to know the curves of the Murray River is onboard paddle steamer PS Emmylou . There’s something wonderfully meditative about watching the vignettes shift along the waterway, which winds through a grove of old red river gums like a ribbon.

The replica paddle steamer, powered by a 1906 Marshall & Sons steam engine, chugs along the watery highway in accordance with the tides. Each of the luxury cabins onboard the boat, which offers three-, four- and seven-night cruises, has a private ensuite.

the PS Emmylou, Echuca, Victoria on Murray River — Wind past a grove of old red river gums onboard PS *Emmylou*.

7. Coomera Houseboats, Gold Coast, Queensland

It’s a little-known fact that the Gold Coast has more waterways than Amsterdam and Venice combined. Explore the many twists and turns of the river system onboard a 12-berth Coomera Houseboats cruiser that will see you pootling from the Gold Coast Marina through Mackenzies Channel and past Perrys Hole in style.

a blue sky Coomera houseboat in Gold Coast, Queensland — Cruise along the Gold Coast waterways onboard a Coomera Houseboat.

Pull up in the Pimpana River and put your crab pots in or drift around Tipplers Passage where you will see pods of dolphins playing in your V-shaped wake.

the interior of the Blue Sky Coomera houseboat in Gold Coast, Queensland — The amenities onboard are all top-notch.

8. The Edge, Lake Eildon, Victoria’s High Country

Home will feel like a five-star waterfront hotel when you drop anchor on Lake Eildon. Those who are happiest horizontal should centre themselves on a lounge overlooking the lake onboard The Edge, from Water’s Edge Lake Eildon Houseboat Hire .

Spend the day drifting onboard the houseboat which has wraparound windows to let in the light. Gliding over the lake will change the way you view the Central Highlands region of Victoria. The houseboat comprises four bedrooms, a galley kitchen and dining area and two luxe living areas. It’s perfect for a family or a group of friends.

The Edge houseboat on Lake Eildon, Victoria’s High Country — Drop anchor on Lake Eildon.

9. Five Star Luxury Spa, Wiseman’s Ferry, Hawkesbury River, NSW

The best houseboats for hire in Australia allow you to take in the full effect of our landscapes. Unhitch from your mooring on the Hawkesbury River and putt around this watery highway that is hemmed in by grey-green bushland. As the name suggests, the Five Star Luxury Spa has a heated 10-person spa. Out-source the skippering to your wannabe boatie mate so you can focus on soaking up the sun in the spa, glass of sparkling Australian wine in hand.

10. Cruise-Away, Walpole-Nornalup, WA

Happiness is a houseboat built for two. Cruise-Away is a four-berth houseboat better known as ‘the honeymoon boat’ moored within the magical Walpole-Nornalup National Park in WA. Pick up a few top drops from Margaret River’s best wineries to enjoy out on the sun deck, watching the huge skies stretched like a canvas above. There’s a dinghy provided so you can try your hand at fishing in one of the inlets. Hang up a rope swing and bombs away.

11. The Salty Dog, Newport, Sydney, Australia

The Salty Dog was built as a romantic houseboat for two. When you first set your sights on The Salty Dog, you will recognise it from the pages of Inside Out and House & Garden. What better way to appreciate Pittwater than when cosied up in the self-contained boathouse?

The Salty Dog houseboat in Newport, Sydney, Australia — The Salty Dog houseboat is perched on tranquil waters in Newport, Sydney.

Expect gun-barrel views of the water as you wake up in this calm and restful off-grid space with windows all around. There is a ladder for access into the water and a dingy with oars if you want to explore. Stake a claim on the back deck to watch the sun set over the view.

the dining area inside The Salty Dog houseboat in Newport, Sydney, Australia — The stylish interiors will make it easy to call this place home – and hard to leave.

12. Mandurah Houseboats, WA

Skipper your own boat, suitably called Just Chillin’ and dive right into exploring the many waterways around Mandurah. Chart your course across the Peel Inlet and into the Murray River onboard the boat, which sleeps 10. While the idea of piloting a boat may seem daunting, Mandurah Houseboats will provide an orientation lesson before you set off. Download some audiobooks; restful contemplation awaits.

13. Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA

The extravagance onboard Riverdream Boatel has a lot to do with the scenery along SA’s magnificent Murray River. The luxurious river boat has a glass-enclosed sky lounge, swim platform, al fresco BBQ area, gourmet kitchen and more.

the bedroom onboard Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA — Soak up a luxury stay while cruising the magnificent Murray River.

The houseboat has five king-bed staterooms with lavish furnishings and en suites. Want to kick back and keep your nose in a book? You can elevate your onboard experience by booking a private chef.

a private bathtub with river views onboard Riverdream Boatel, Mannum, SA — Freshen up in your private tub overlooking the scenic river.

14. Kimberley Dreaming, WA

There’s nothing Ord-inary about a houseboat holiday onboard Kimberley Dreaming . The houseboat sleeps six but is ideal for two couples keen on exploring the upper reaches of the Ord River. Watch for birds sashaying theatrically on the shoreline. Admire the dramatic gorge walls rising steeply from the water’s edge. And find crocodiles basking in the sun. Choose your own adventure: fish, watch for black butcher birds, keep your nose in a book or play board games for hours.

Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

“Keeping craft alive is a noble cause,” says Jess Cameron-Wootten, a charming and passionate master leathercrafter and cordwainer, who handmakes traditional leather boots and shoes in Ballarat’s old Gun Cotton Goods Store.

Ballarat was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art, and today it’s a place where craft traditions converge with contemporary needs. Nothing quite captures this convergence as a visit to Wootten , the workshop and store of Jess Cameron-Wootten and his partner Krystina Menegazzo.

heritage buildings in Ballarat — Ballarat’s streets are lined with heritage buildings. (Image: Matt Dunne)

Jess’s father was an artisan bootmaker, or cordwainer. Now Jess and Krys and their small team of artisans continue the tradition, but with a modern spin. The company’s boots and shoes, made completely from scratch, are renowned for their quality and longevity. Wootten also craft shoes, bags, belts, leather aprons, wallets and more.

Cosy beanies, gloves, alpaca socks, “unbreakable” shoelaces and various other goods – many from local craftspeople and small-scale makers – fill the shop’s shelves. “We’re always happy to support a mate,” says Jess. “People love to see the workshop and where things are made. Our clients care about quality and sustainability,” Krys comments. The company slogan ‘Made for generations’ says it all.

Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery. (Image: Tara Moore)

For Ruby Pilven, craft is also in the DNA – both her parents were potters and with her latest porcelain ceramics, Ruby’s young daughter has been helping add colour to the glazes. “I grew up watching my parents in the workshop – I’ve always been doing ceramics,” she says, although her Visual Arts degree was in printmaking. That printmaking training comes through particularly in the rich layering of pattern. Her audacious colour, unexpected shapes and sudden pops of 12-carat gold are contemporary, quirky – and joyful.

You can see Ruby’s handcrafted ceramics, and work by other local and regional artists, at Ross Creek Gallery , a light-filled space surrounded by serene bushland, across from the mudbrick house her parents built in the 1980s. A 10-minute drive from Ballarat, it’s a tangible link to the region’s well-established craft traditions.

How Ballarat is preserving the past

artisans making crafts at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades holds workshops to preserve crafts and skills.

While tradition is ongoing, there’s a danger that many of these specific type of skills and knowledge are fading as an older generation passes on. Step forward the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades .

The seven purpose-built studios occupy a fabulous modern building adjacent to Sovereign Hill, with state-of-the-art facilities, enormous windows and landscape views across to Warrenheip and Wadawurrung Country.

artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat — Check out artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

Practising artisans run hands-on workshops. Fancy making your own medieval armour? Or trying your hand at blacksmithing, spinning wool, plaiting leather, weaving cane or craft a knife? Book a class and learn how. “It’s about creating awareness and also sharing knowledge and skills before they are lost,” explains Deborah Klein, the centre manager.

A city steeped in food and flavours

Chef José Fernandez preparing American streetfood at Pancho — Chef José Fernandez creates vibrant South American street food at Pancho. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

One skill that hasn’t been lost is that of cooking. Ballarat’s burgeoning gastronomy scene runs the gamut from an artisan bakery (the atmospheric 1816 Bakehouse) to cool coffee shops, speakeasy cocktail bars and distilleries to fine-dining venues. But I’m still surprised to find Pancho , José Fernandez’s South American street food restaurant, serving fried cheese tequeños, fiery fish tacos, Argentinian grilled chicken.

The room is as lively as the food – a whirl of colour filled with gifted and thrifted paintings, photos, tchotchkes (trinkets), plants. There’s a Mexican abuela aesthetic going on here. Even before the music and mezcal kick in, it’s fun. Heads up on the drinks menu – an authentic selection of mezcal, tequila, South American wines and Mexican cerveza.

a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat — Enjoy a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

The spirit is willing, so after lunch we head towards the gold rush-era Ballarat train station and across the line to the old 1860s Goods Shed for Itinerant Spirits . At one end, a massive German copper still looms behind a wall of glass. The fit-out embraces deep olive-green tones, original bluestone walls, steamer trunks as coffee tables, heritage timber floors, oversized lamp shades and cognac-hued modernist leather seating.

the Itinerant Spirits Distillery & Cocktail Bar, Ballarat — The distillery operates from an old goods shed. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Gallivanter Gin, Vansetter Vodka and Wayfarer Whiskey – the key spirits distilled – star at the bar. The spirits are crafted using grains from the Wimmera Mallee region, and native botanicals foraged in the Grampians. Seasonal cocktails are inspired by local people and places (I loved The Headland, inspired by Sovereign Hill and flavoured with old-fashioned raspberry drops). Sample the spirits, and join a cocktail masterclass or a distillery tour. It’s a seductive setting – you’ll likely find yourself ordering a charcuterie platter or pizza as the evening progresses.

The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

one of the rooms at Hotel Vera, Ballarat — The rooms at Hotel Vera have a contemporary style. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

New lives for old buildings keeps history alive. Vera, Ballarat’s boutique five-star hotel, has taken it to the next level: it’s a palimpsest, a subtle layering of early 1900s and 1930s Art Deco architecture with a sleek new wing. There are seven spacious suites, each a dramatically different colour, with designer chairs, blissful bathrooms. High-end pottery and hand-picked artworks imbue the spaces with personality.

Vera’s intimate, award-winning restaurant, Babae, is subtly theatrical with sheer drapes and gallery lighting, its bespoke timber furniture and brass-edged marble bench setting the stage for food with a sharp regional focus. “We have goat’s cheese from a local supplier, handmade granola from local Vegas & Rose, truffles from nearby Black Cat Truffles, fresh food from our garden, and regional wines,” says joint owner David Cook-Doulton.

Celebrating the local makers, bakers, growers and producers, and the master chefs who work their magic is all part of the rich tapestry that links Ballarat’s history to its vibrant present.

A traveller’s checklist

Getting there

It’s 90 minutes from Melbourne, either on the Western Freeway, or hop on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.

Staying there

Hotel Vera is a centrally located Art Deco boutique hotel. Consider Hotel Provincial , which feels like a sleek country house, but with its own restaurant, Lola.

a contemporary room at Hotel Provincial, Ballarat — Hotel Provincial has country house vibes.

Eating there

dining at Mr Jones, Ballarat — The table is set at Mr Jones. (Image: Tony Evans/ Visit Victoria)

Culinary whiz Damien Jones helms Chef’s Hat winner Mr Jones Dining with quiet assurance. His modern Asian food is deceptively simple with deep, intense flavours. Low-key, laid-back ambience, lovely staff, thoughtful wine list.

Cocktails are definitely a thing in Ballarat. Reynard (fox in French) is foxy indeed, a clubby space with top-notch cocktails and small bites. Grainery Lane is extravagantly OTT with its massive 1880s bar, myriad chandeliers, brass gin still, Asian-inspired food and lavish cocktails.

dining at Grainery Lane, Ballarat — Dining at Grainery Lane.

Playing there

a laneway filled with artworks in Ballarat — An artful laneway in the city. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

Check out local design legend Travis Price’s wall murals in Hop Lane with its colourful canopy of brollies, or in Main Street. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s off-site Backspace Gallery showcases early-career artists in a stylish, contemporary space. First Nations-owned and run Perridak Arts connects people to place, bringing together art and crafts in this gallery/shop.

a woman admiring artworks at Perridak Arts Gallery — Perridak Arts is a First Nations-run gallery. (Image: Tony Evans)

The wineries of the Pyrenees are close at hand with their welcoming cellar doors and robust reds. Join a behind-the-scenes tour at the Centre for Gold Rush Collections .

Don’t forget the giant bluestone Kryal Castle , ‘the land of adventure’, for a little medieval magic, and not just for the kids: get ready for Highland-style feasting, jousting, even overnight stays.

The life aquatic: 14 of the best houseboat holidays in Australia